Former mayor’s hearing still on for Jan. 20 to determine whether comments are admissible in court

Staff report

WARREN

A Jan. 20 hearing is scheduled for former Hubbard Mayor Richard D. Keenan, who is accused of raping a small child.

Judge Peter Kontos of Trumbull County Common Pleas Court will hear testimony at that time to determine whether the testimony of certain individuals will be admissible.

Keenan stood in court before Judge Kontos on Monday as attorneys and the judge discussed procedural issues.

At the Jan. 20 hearing, Keenan’s wife, a pastor, medical personnel at ValleyCare Trumbull Memorial Hospital and a social worker are expected to be questioned about comments Kennan reportedly made to them regarding the case.

Afterward, attorneys will file briefs on the evidence heard, Judge Kontos said.

The case is set for trial at 11 a.m. April 24.

Keenan, 66, of Moore Street in Hubbard, could be sentenced to life in prison without parole if convicted of any of the rape counts.

Prosecutors say he admitted on several occasions raping and molesting the girl over a three-year period – beginning when she was 4.

Keenan served as Hubbard mayor in 2010 and 2011. He was indicted in August on eight counts of rape and 12 counts of attempted rape and gross sexual imposition.